Agoraphobia is primarily characterized by intense anxiety in situations where escape might be difficult or embarrassing, or help might not be available if panic-like symptoms or other incapacitating or embarrassing symptoms develop. Common situations that trigger anxiety in individuals with agoraphobia include:
Waiting in line
Crowds
Restaurants
Movie theaters
Appointments
Using public transportation
Anxiety can manifest in various ways, and its experience is highly individual. Agoraphobia is associated with a range of symptoms, which may include:
Rapid heart rate
Feelings of fear or terror
Sleep disturbances, fatigue
Difficulty concentrating
Excessive sweating
Dry mouth
Difficulty breathing
Chest pain
Trembling
Nausea and diarrhea
An urge to escape the current situation
Dizziness
Difficulty swallowing
Feeling faint
Fear of dying